Southcoast Health issues hiring freeze and furloughs non-essential workers

NEW BEDFORD, M.A. (WLNE) – A letter was sent to all employees on Thursday that South Coast Health had instituted a hiring freeze and would furlough a limited number of non-essential staff.

The non-essential staff being placed on furlough are not actively involved in patient care as clinical and operational resources are focused on the massive response to COVID-19 throughout the region.

Keith A. Hovan, President and CEO of Southcoast Health said in a statement,

“In combating this pandemic, hospitals and healthcare systems across the country are facing new realities, and Southcoast is no exception. Our difficult decision to furlough a limited number of employees who are not actively involved in patient care will affect some administrative and professional personnel, as opposed to those in clinical roles or support services who contribute directly to patient experience. Our frontline physicians and providers, nurses, and clinical staff have met this moment with unmatched determination and courage. These measures have been taken to ensure that all available resources – staffing, supplies, and funds – are focused on their preparation and protection so they can continue to give every patient who comes through our doors the highest quality care possible.”

When on furlough, individuals are out of their job temporarily, while receiving no pay. Employees who are furloughed remain on a stand-by status and can be recalled back to work at any time.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s crucial impact on the organization, Hovan said the furloughs, hiring freeze and executive salary reductions are “necessary and appropriate” as Southcoast has already absorbed significant revenue losses amid declines in nearly all non-COVID-19 patient volume.

South Coast remains hopeful that the hiring freeze and furlough will not extend for a lengthy period of time and will be able to recall employees back to work.